Common Types of Tarmac Damage Herne Bay
When properly installed, tarmac and asphalt surfaces can last for decades; however, minor defects such as inadequate edging in critical areas, diesel spillage, or poor compaction can result in uneven surfaces, depressions, and deterioration of your driveway in Herne Bay.
Prior to commencing any repair work in Herne Bay, our tarmac contractors evaluate the underlying cause of the damage. The most frequent problems we encounter include:
- Surface cracking resulting from weather exposure or ground settlement
- Potholes developing from water penetration and freeze-thaw action
- Edge breakdown where the tarmac borders grass or gravel surfaces
- Depressed areas caused by inadequate sub-base preparation or excessive weight
- Surface disintegration where the bitumen binding agent has broken down
How We Repair The Tarmac / Asphalt
Initial Assessment
Our process begins with a thorough inspection of the damaged area to establish whether a localised patch repair is adequate or if a more extensive section requires resurfacing. Individual isolated defects typically respond well to patching, while extensive cracking or numerous potholes generally suggest that complete resurfacing represents the most cost-effective long-term approach.
Preparation Work
Thorough preparation forms the foundation of a durable repair. We cut away the compromised section with a disc cutter to establish clean, perpendicular edges. This ensures the repair material bonds properly rather than merely overlaying damaged tarmac. When addressing potholes, we extract all unstable material and inspect the underlying sub-base. Should the sub-base prove defective, we excavate deeper and compact fresh aggregate material before applying any tarmac.
Applying the Repair Material
Our repairs utilise hot bitumen tarmac as it creates a far superior bond compared to cold-lay alternatives. The repair area receives a priming coat of bitumen emulsion to enhance adhesion between the new material and the existing surface. We then apply the tarmac in successive layers, thoroughly compacting each one using a vibrating plate or roller according to the repair’s dimensions.
Finishing and Compaction
The final surface undergoes rolling to achieve a level and finish consistent with the surrounding area. We intentionally overfill the repair slightly, accounting for material settlement during the compaction process. The perimeter edges receive particular attention—adequate compaction in these areas prevents future edge failure.
When to Consider Full Resurfacing
Should your tarmac display numerous damaged areas or the surface has exceeded 15-20 years of age, repairing individual sections may prove uneconomical. At Driveways Herne Bay, we provide transparent assessments regarding whether repairs offer genuine value or if resurfacing the complete area represents the superior option.
For guidance on tarmac repairs in Herne Bay, contact us at 01227 915186.
